The SEO Tools I Actually Use Before Publishing Any Blog Post

Publishing a blog post is easy. Publishing a blog post that actually ranks? That’s a different story.

After working on dozens of articles — both for my own projects and client websites — I realized something simple:

“Content doesn’t rank because it’s written. It ranks because it’s optimized.”

Over the years, I’ve tested hundreds of tools, plugins, and strategies. Some helped, some wasted time. But a consistent workflow has made all the difference.

Here’s the exact tool stack and process I use before hitting publish.

1. Word Count & Readability Check (First Step Every Time)

Before I even think about SEO plugins or backlinks, I start with structure.

Why is structure so important? Because content length and readability directly affect:

• Dwell time
• Bounce rate
• Scan-ability
• User satisfaction

From my experience, articles under 400 words rarely perform unless they target ultra-specific keywords. For informational posts, my goal is usually 800–1500 words, depending on topic depth, with short paragraphs and sentences under 20 words.

How I do it: I use a fast word count tool like this Word Count Tool to check:

• Word and character counts
• Sentence and paragraph structure
• Estimated reading time

What I personally love about fast word counters:

• Instant results — no typing delays
• Character, sentence, and paragraph tracking
• Clean, distraction-free interface

Even small delays during editing multiple drafts can slow down the workflow. A fast, accurate tool lets me stay in the zone.

2. Keyword Research & Topic Validation

Before putting pen to paper, I validate demand using tools like:

• SEMrush
• Ahrefs
• Google Search Console

I don’t chase high-volume vanity keywords. Instead, I focus on:

• Clear search intent
• Low-to-medium competition
• Ranking gaps
• Long-tail variations

As Brian Dean, founder of Backlinko, says:

“You don’t need more content. You need better-targeted content.”

That quote changed my approach to SEO completely. It’s no longer about writing more; it’s about writing smarter.

3. On-Page Optimization

Once the draft is ready, I move to on-page SEO using plugins like:

• Yoast SEO
• Rank Math

But I don’t blindly chase green lights. Instead, I manually check:

• Keyword placement in H1, H2
• Meta description clarity and length
• Internal linking structure
• Over-optimization risks

Overusing exact-match keywords can hurt readability. Google’s helpful content updates reward natural, human-focused language — not mechanical repetition.

Even a single sentence that reads awkwardly can reduce engagement. That’s why manual checks remain crucial despite AI suggestions.

4. Content Structure & Engagement

One hard-learned lesson: walls of text kill rankings.

Even high-quality content fails if it’s overwhelming. Before publishing, I scan for:

• Paragraph length
• Bullet lists
• Subheading clarity
• Logical flow

Ann Handley, author of Everybody Writes, nails it:

“Good writing isn’t about what you say. It’s about what the reader understands.”

This philosophy guides every post I publish. I aim for scannable content so readers can find answers quickly, which improves dwell time and signals to Google that the content is useful.

5. Final Technical Check

Content quality isn’t enough if your technical setup is weak. Before publishing, I check:

• Mobile responsiveness
• Page speed
• Internal link anchors
• Image compression
• Schema markup (if applicable)

Even excellent content won’t rank on a slow page. For images and documents, I rely on free tools that help me compress, resize, and optimize files without sacrificing quality. Small improvements in page speed significantly increase rankings over time.

Why a Fast Word Count Tool Still Matters in 2026

Many writers underestimate simple tools. But here’s what I’ve noticed:

• Speed improves workflow: Fast metrics mean less context switching.
• Instant metrics reduce friction: You know if your article meets length and readability goals instantly.
• Clean UI reduces cognitive load: No distractions, just the numbers you need.

Small workflow improvements compound. More published, high-quality articles = more ranking opportunities. Consistency wins SEO.

My Personal Publishing Workflow (Step-by-Step)

Here’s my full workflow for reference:

1. Keyword validation — ensuring there’s intent and a realistic ranking chance
2. Draft writing — focus on clarity and logical flow
3. Word count + readability check — using tools like Techkruch Word Count Tool
4. On-page optimization — meta, headings, internal links
5. Structural cleanup — bullet points, subheadings, paragraph length
6. Technical review — mobile, speed, schema, images
7. Publish — track performance and update if necessary

Nothing complicated. Just disciplined execution, consistently applied.

Expert Quotes I Follow

• Brian Dean (Backlinko):

“You don’t need more content. You need better-targeted content.”

• Ann Handley (Everybody Writes):

“Good writing isn’t about what you say. It’s about what the reader understands.”

• Neil Patel (Digital Marketing Expert):

“SEO is not about tricking Google. It’s about partnering with Google to provide the best search results for users.”

These quotes are not just motivational; they remind me to balance optimization with human readability.

Tools I Personally Use

Besides word count, here’s my SEO tool stack:

• Keyword & topic tools: SEMrush, Ahrefs, Google Search Console
• On-page optimization: Yoast SEO, Rank Math
• Speed & image tools: TinyPNG, Squoosh
• Readability & text analysis: Techkruch Word Count Tool
• Schema & structured data testing: Google Rich Results Test

Each tool has a purpose, but none replace a solid workflow and process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping readability checks — short sentences and clear paragraphs matter.
2. Ignoring structure — headings, bullets, and logical flow improve both UX and SEO.
3. Over-optimizing keywords — natural language always wins.
4. Neglecting technical setup — slow pages or broken links can tank rankings.
5. Underestimating workflow efficiency — small delays in drafting or editing compound over time.

SEO Isn’t About Tools — It’s About Process

Tools alone don’t make content rank. Systems do.

But the right tools make the system efficient and consistent. Starting with structure — word count and readability — sets the foundation for every subsequent step.

When you combine:

• Proper research
• Consistent structure
• On-page optimization
• Technical checks

…you create content that has the best chance to rank while saving time.